Man City chief of football Omar Berrada makes shock switch to join rivals Manchester United as CEO

Manchester United's newly acquired shareholders - Jim Ratcliffe and his company, INEOS, have made their first mark on United's footballing future. The new shareholders have roped in the services of Manchester City's Chief of Football Operations - Omar Berrada - after his resignation from his former side.

"As one of the most experienced football executives at the top of European football, Omar brings a wealth of football and commercial expertise, with a proven record of successful leadership and a passion to help lead change across the Club." Manchester United's statement on Omar Berrada's appointment on Saturday, 20 January.

Omar Berrada will be joining the Red Devils as their new CEO, after the position had been left vacant since November 2023, when former United CEO Richard Arnold handed-in his resignation. The position was being taken care of by United's Legal head Patrick Stewart on an interim basis since then. United, in their official announcement, said that this move was aimed at restoring the club's footballing glory.

"It is our stated ambition to re-establish Manchester United as a title-winning club. We are pleased that Omar will be joining us to help achieve that goal, so that, once again, United fans can see, in the words of Sir Matt Busby, the red flag flying high at the summit of English, European and world football. Omar's start date will be confirmed in due course; in the meantime, Patrick Stewart will continue as interim CEO." Manchester United in their statement.

Berrada, who was also a part of the Barcelona board during the Pep Guardiola era, started as Manchester City's commercial director, progressed to chief operating officer and later became the chief football operations officer in 2020. He has earned considerable praise for his role in City's recent success, including the treble in the 2022-23 season. Manchester United's statement regarding Berrada's appointment clearly indicates the club's intent to replicate City's success formula and turn United back to a "title-winning club".

Since the announcement of Jim Ratcliffe and his company INEOS coming into United as their new 25 percent shareholders, it was former Juventus CEO Jean-Claude Blanc who was strongly linked to the CEO role at United. Manchester City confirmed the departure of Berrada in a statement and wished him luck on his future at United. It is understood that Berrada will begin his journey as the United CEO from summer of 2024 - that is the new season.

"The club understands his decision to look for a new challenge, and he leaves with our thanks and best wishes." Manchester City statement on Berrada.

Manchester United's current football season has been woeful, sitting seventh in the Premier League table and eliminated from both the Carabao Cup and the UEFA Champions League. Their last chance for silverware this season hinges on the FA Cup, where they are set to face English fourth-tier club Newport County in a fourth-round fixture. Hence, this announcement comes as a dash of hope for both the playing side of United and their fans for a better future.